Conditions of the SIA licence mean holders must display it where it can be seen at all times when carrying out licensable activities – unless it has been reported lost or stolen.

The maximum penalty for failing to display a valid licence is six months in jail and a fine of up to £5,000.

But investigators found no offences as all of the individuals questioned were displaying a valid SIA licence.

Darren Woodhouse, head of investigation at the SIA, said: ‘This was an excellent result.

‘It was encouraging to see all of the operatives checked displaying a valid licence.

‘Members of the public seeing licensed security staff can be reassured that they have undergone training and checks to ensure that they are fit and proper to hold a licence and work in these important and public-facing roles.’

Sergeant Wayne Fewings from the Eastern area licensing team said: ‘We’re pleased with these results.

‘It demonstrates the success of the close working relationship we have built up with security operatives working in Portsmouth.